Published Paper Details:

Superabsorbent polymer is a polymer of hydrophilic networks that effectively absorb & retain large amount of aqueous solutions. Superabsorbent polymers are widely employed for various applications such as in sanitary products, agricultural and horticultural activities. Superabsorbent polymers are classified into two types natural and synthetic. Natural super absorbents are polypeptide and polysaccharide based whereas synthetic super absorbents are petrochemical based. The type of biomass, dosage of initiator, crosslinker and other factors responsible in changing the absorption capacity of the material are studied. A fertilizer stick was made using the superabsorbent polymer and slow release fertilizers. Trials & biodegradability studies were carried out. The study revealed that the paddy straw- SAP composite can absorb 208g/g of water and it was greatly affected by ph. Paddy straw-graphite oxide SAP composite had an absorption capacity of 326g/g in distilled water. The fertilizer stick was effective in supplying the slow release micronutrient to the plants.